Tropical Storm Ernesto brought heavy rain to the northeast Caribbean islands, prompting preparations in Puerto Rico, including school closures, National Guard activation, and shelter openings. The storm is expected to dump up to six inches of rain across the region and could cause flooding and mudslides. Authorities in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands urged residents to take the storm seriously.
Ernesto is forecasted to move over or near the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico before heading toward Bermuda later in the week. It is expected to strengthen into at least a Category 1 hurricane by Thursday and could become a major hurricane with wind speeds of 111 mph by Friday. While the continental U.S. is not expected to be directly impacted, dangerous rip currents and rough surf conditions are a concern along the East Coast.
This is the third hurricane of an active season, with experts predicting above-average activity due to warm ocean waters. Residents in the eastern U.S. are still recovering from previous storms, including Hurricane Debby and Hurricane Beryl, which caused extensive flooding and fatalities. The Coast Guard has warned boaters and beachgoers in affected areas to avoid the water due to hazardous conditions associated with Tropical Storm Ernesto.
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